General Commentary - Doctrine 1

"What is complete and independent neither itself has troubles nor hands any over to another, therefore it is not wrapped up in tempers or favors- because everything of that sort exists in what is imperfect."

Regarding weakness/imperfection, Philodemus directly connects human weakness with our need for friendship. While discussing the importance of mutual friendship (ἡ συμφυλία) he says that generosity is necessary:

"...ἀμέλει δὲ καὶ ἐφ' ἡμῶν τῶν ἀσθενῶν

καὶ προσδεομένων πρὸς τὰ χρειώδη τῆς φιλίας"

"...particularly for us who are imperfect/weak and

and in need also of the necessary things that come from friendship"

De Dis (Book 3), PHerc 26.fr.87 second paragraph, beginning half way through line 5 (http://163.1.169.40/gsdl/collect/P….a.01.hires.jpg)

Though I can't comment on the Greek, I find this a very refreshing translation! Very down to earth in terms of gods and such.